Loudoun Co. allowed to participate in Dulles Greenway tolls probe

WASHINGTON – Opponents of the Dulles Greenway are touting one victory in their ongoing war over high tolls.

The Virginia State Corporation Commission granted Loudoun County’s request to join an effort to drive down rates.

By granting the county standing in the SCC’s probe of toll rates, the county will be able to cross-examine witnesses and formally take part in the case.

“The Greenway is highway robbery,” says Rep. Frank Wolf, R-Va.

“It is basically stealing from people out there.”

Wolf is among those critical of the owners of the Greenway, TRIP II, for what they believe are excessive tolls.

Virginia Delegate David Ramadan, R-87, is leading the case with the SCC, hoping to convince regulators that toll rates are so high, scores of drivers are actively avoiding the area, forcing noisy traffic and gridlock into surrounding neighborhoods.

The SCC will hear both sides in November as the case’s trial phase begins.

“There are people who actually pay more for tolls on the Greenway per month than they pay for car payments,” Wolf says.

Ramadan released a statement Monday, lauding the SCC decision to allow Loudoun County to officially join the case.

“Having the expertise of the Loudoun County attorney and the formal support of the Board of Supervisors will be of great assistance to my team as we prepare for our upcoming evidentiary hearing,” he wrote.

Ramadan also unveiled new signs at intersections in his District, warning drivers about the cost of tolls on the Dulles Greenway.